What is the purpose of blood typing before a transfusion?

The purpose of blood typing before a transfusion is primarily to prevent transfusion reactions. Blood typing helps to identify the specific blood group of both the donor and the recipient, ensuring compatibility. If incompatible blood types are mixed during a transfusion, it can lead to an immune response where the recipient's body attacks the transfused blood cells, potentially causing serious and life-threatening reactions.

Performing blood typing allows healthcare providers to match the ABO and Rh blood groups accurately, thereby minimizing the risk of hemolytic reactions. This process is critical for patient safety during transfusions, ensuring that the transfused blood is acceptable to the recipient’s immune system.